Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Visually compelling, so-so crime drama has drinking, sex.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Panhandle
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In PANHANDLE, an agoraphobic man finds a body that has turned an odd shade of blue in his yard. Sequestered in his family's mansion in North Florida, Bell Prescott (Luke Kirby, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) knows an awful lot about the body, which surprises traffic cop Cammie (Tiana Okoye). Though she's technically not a detective, solving a crime with Bell's help wouldn't be the worst thing for her career...unless his skill for solving mysteries unravels the secret she's hiding. Will they uncover the mystery behind Bell's wife's death? Will Cammie reveal what she's hiding?
Is It Any Good?
Set in a swampy small town in northern Florida, this show is visually alluring, but the script isn't mesmerizing, and characters never connect in meaningful ways. Panhandle has lots of potential; a crime comedy set in the South is a refreshing contrast to crime dramas set in gritty urban downtowns. But there's a lot of focus on quirky music and visuals, but not as much devotion to substance.
Fans of Luke Kirby may root for his agoraphobic anti-hero. Other viewers likely will find more satisfying crime shows elsewhere.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about teamwork in Panhandle. How do people with different backgrounds and goals work together in this show?
A main character in this show struggles with alcoholism, but isn't willing to change. Does seeing someone drinking in a show influence the way you view alcohol consumption?
Finding the murderer of his wife motivates Bell to take risks that get him out into the world. How does perseverance make a difference in your life?
TV Details
- Premiere date : June 2, 2023
- Cast : Luke Kirby , Lorenza Izzo , Tiana Okoye
- Network : Roku Channel
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Empathy , Perseverance , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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